Gum Infection Treatment: Can Babies also Get Gum Infections?

Also called gingivitis, a gum infection is an inflammation of the gums. The symptoms of gum infection can vary depending on the severity of the infection, but may include:

Red, swollen, and/or bleeding gums
Bad breath
Pain when chewing
Whitish patches on the gums

If you think your baby has a gum infection, it is important to see a periodontist for consultation and possibly, gum infection treatment right away. Untreated gum infections can lead to more serious health problems.

How do you Treat Gum Infection in Babies?

Gum infections in babies are usually treated with antibiotics. The antibiotic will be prescribed based on the baby's age, overall health, and the type of bacteria causing the infection.

When you check-in for gum infection treatment for your baby, the periodontist will work to get the infection under control. The focus of treatment is usually on relieving symptoms and preventing the infection from spreading.

To ensure that the infection doesn't return, it is important to keep up with good oral hygiene habits. This includes brushing your baby's teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, cleaning their gums after feedings with a wet washcloth, and scheduling regular dental check-ups.

Are there any Risks Associated with Gum Infections in Babies?

Gum infections may be rare in babies, but they can cause serious health problems if left untreated. Untreated gum infections can lead to:

Meningitis: This is a serious infection of the brain and spinal cord which can cause fever, seizures, and even death. It occurs when the infection spreads to the cerebrospinal fluid.
Pneumonia: This is an infection of the lungs that can cause coughing, chest pain, and shortness of breath. There is accumulating evidence that periodontal disease may influence the development of respiratory infections such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pneumonia.
Periodontitis: This is a serious infection of the gums and bone, which can lead to tooth loss. In most cases, gum infection treatment in babies can prevent this from happening.

There are a few factors that may increase your baby's risks of getting a gum infection, and it is important that you know them as well. These factors include:

Having a poor diet: Babies who eat a lot of sugary foods are more likely to get gum infections. To ensure good oral health, it is important to feed your baby a healthy diet. This includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy products.
Not getting enough fluoride: Babies who don't get enough fluoride may be more prone to gum infections. Fluoride is a mineral that helps protect teeth and gums from decay. It can be found in many toothpastes and water supplies.
Having poor oral hygiene: Babies who don't brush their teeth regularly are more likely to get gum infections. It is important to brush your baby's teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.

It is also important to note that there are some health conditions that may make getting a gum infection in your baby more likely. Some of the conditions that may increase your baby's risk of gum infection include:

Type-1 Diabetes: Babies with type-1 diabetes are at a higher risk for gum infections. This is because diabetes can cause a loss of blood flow to the gums and make them more susceptible to infection.
Down syndrome: Down syndrome is a genetic disorder that increases the risk of gum infections. In babies with Down syndrome, the gums can be often red, swollen, and bleed easily.
Premature Birth: Babies who are born prematurely are at a higher risk of developing gum infections. This is because their immune systems are not fully developed, and they are more susceptible to infection.

Can Gum Infections be prevented in Babies?

The best way to prevent gum infections in babies is to ensure good oral hygiene. This includes brushing their teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, cleaning their gums after feedings with a wet washcloth, and scheduling regular dental check-ups.

In addition, you can help prevent gum infection in your baby by making sure they get enough fluoride. Fluoride is a mineral that helps protect teeth and gums from decay. It can be found in many toothpastes and water supplies.

You can also help prevent gum infection by feeding your baby a healthy diet. This includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy products.

If your baby is at a higher risk for gum infections due to a health condition the baby is living with, make sure you schedule regular dental check-ups. This will help your baby's dentist monitor the health of their gums and teeth and provide any necessary treatment like gum infection treatment before the condition can worsen.

If you think your baby may have a gum infection, it is important to consider gum infection treatment as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment of gum infection in babies is key to preventing further complications. You can find a doctor for gum infection treatment in babies by contacting your child's pediatrician or by searching online for "gum infection treatment for babies."

What to Expect with Gum Infection Treatment in Babies

If your baby is diagnosed with a gum infection, the dentist or doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics. Antibiotics are medications that help fight infection. If your baby is prescribed antibiotics, it is important to make sure they take all of the medication as directed, even if they start feeling better.

In some cases, a dentist or doctor may also recommend a procedure called scaling and root planing. This is a procedure that helps remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums. It is often used to treat gum infection in babies.

Gum infection in babies can be a serious condition. However, with early diagnosis and treatment, most babies will make a full recovery. By following the tips above, you can help protect your baby's oral health and reduce their risk of developing gum infection.

Final Thoughts

Protecting your baby's oral health is important. While it may seem like a daunting task, there are many things you can do to help keep their teeth and gums healthy. As always, don't overlook any signs that your baby may be experiencing a gum infection.

Our dentists are experienced in treating gum infection in babies. If you think your baby may have a gum infection, please contact us for a consultation. We would be happy to help! Call: 8588 9868 or 6513 9549.

An Dental | Dentist Orchard

360 Orchard RD, #03-06/07 International Building Singapore 238869

+65 6513 9549

https://drmarleneteo.com/

https://andental.sg/